Arts and crafts activities have many developmental benefits and this is especially the case at the impactful ages of 3-5 years old. Here are some of the ways these activities can aid in a child's growth.  

Motor Skills: Motions that a child uses during art time such as holding a paintbrush or scribbling with a crayon, are important in fine motor skill building. Developmental milestones around the age of three includes; being able to hold a crayon better, drawing a circle and beginning to use safety scissors. At age four, children may now be able to draw a square and begin cutting straight lines with scissors. The use of scissors is important as it develops the dexterity children will need for writing when starting school.

Language Development: Encouraging your child to describe what they are making is a great starting point for developing descriptive language. Arts and crafts provides children the opportunity to learn colours, shapes and actions. 

Decision Making: According to a report by Americans for the Arts, art strengthens children's problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.  

Visual Learning: Drawing, sculpting with clay, lacing with a card and threading beads on a string all develop visual-spatial skills. 

Inventiveness: A sense of innovation is developed in children when they are encouraged to express themselves and take risks while creating art.  

Improved Academic Performance: Studies show that there is a correlation between art and other schooling achievements. Children who participate regularly in the arts are more likely to be recognized for academic achievement.
 

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